dominohttps://www.domino.com
The ultimate guide for a stylish life and home—discover your personal style and create a space you love.Fri, 24 May 2019 20:50:51 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.10Why Are 15,000 Amazon Reviewers So Obsessed With This $5 Mini Skillet?https://www.domino.com/content/mini-cast-iron-skillet/
Fri, 24 May 2019 19:11:16 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139533The tiny home movement is gaining momentum—and with it, apparently all our favorite household goods are similarly shrinking.

Going small seems to be trending across the board. Suddenly, miniature kitchen tools like tiny butter knives and mini butter-warming pots are everywhere. The teeny glass spoons on view at the recent Object & Thing design fair elicited rapturous responses from the entire Domino editorial team. There’s something so delightful about these products—and apparently, more than 15,000 Amazon reviewers are inclined to agree. One of the top 10 best-selling home products on the site is a 3.5-inch cast-iron skillet, which boasts an average 4.5 star rating and numerous rapturous reviews of its own.

“Throw your money at Amazon and never look back,” gushes one reviewer. “I cook everything in this baby.”

“I’ve named my 3.5-inch pan Thomas the Tiny. That’s how much I like it, I named the damn thing,” shares another.

Word to the wise: 3.5 inches is, well, very small. Don’t buy this skillet expecting to be prepping elaborate group meals. That said, it’s a great purchase for those looking to build out an arsenal of kitchen tools, especially if you live alone. Cooking for one doesn’t have to be a sad affair, and when your sous chef is this charmingly mini cast-iron skillet, it can even be fun.

It’s perfect for frying an egg, cooking sauces that won’t create massive amounts of leftovers, and trying your hand at a dessert for one. If you’re looking for a summery recipe that requires a cast-iron skillet, try a strawberry rhubarb galette—though you’ll definitely have to tweak the proportions for an individual serving. Some Amazon reviewers also recommend it as the perfect camping cooking tool.

If all that fails, the skillet is also just a really great decorative piece. Hang it up on your kitchen utility rack with the rest of your (likely human-size) pots and pans. Keep it displayed on your counters as a spoon rest or rustic objet. At $5, it’s a pretty low-risk purchase.

]]>Elly LeavittGen-Z’s Favorite App Might Just Be the Best Place to Discover Organizing Productshttps://www.domino.com/content/tiktok-home-trend/
Fri, 24 May 2019 18:35:26 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139488Lip-synching. Dance challenges. Self-referential jokes that, for new users, might be impossible to decode. These are all things that you can find on TikTok, the video-centric social media app that Gen-Z loves. But it also features product recommendations that can help you keep a clean house—wait, what?

First, allow me to supply some background information. This app, which has been the most-downloaded in the App Store for five consecutive quarters, has an admittedly youthful audience—one that, by and large, is of a teenage demographic. That’s why I was surprised to discover, amid the memes and animal videos that I watch for a good old hit of dopamine, one account devoted entirely to home goods. You see, user @lomile uses the app to share product recommendations from Chinese mass online retailer Ali Express—and the videos have amassed nearly 2 million likes.

Ali Express, for those unfamiliar, is a behemoth of electronics, home goods, cleaning supplies, clothes, toys—you name it. It’s intimidatingly massive, so of course there’s a need for curation. And @lomile does just that. With quick editing and background music typical of all the other varied videos you’d find on the app, this user showcases single products, from dish-drying racks to fancy fishbowls, all with the aim of spotlighting the things that otherwise might get lost in the never-ending wormhole that is the Internet.

Videos, after all, can showcase the purpose of a product far better than a single image can. Although this account appears to be the only of its kind (so far), don’t be surprised when your teen’s favorite app becomes the best place to look when you need a great product recommendation. For now, we’ll just sit back and watch these very, very satisfying videos—and maybe start getting into some of those TikTok dance challenges, too.

]]>Rebecca DeczynskiThese Are the Trendiest Wedding Flowers, According to Top Floral Designershttps://www.domino.com/content/wedding-flower-trends/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:24:21 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139289Flowers are an integral part of a wedding—maybe not as important as the ceremony itself, but you get the point. Whether they’re for the actual ceremony or the reception, florals are an aesthetically pleasing visual element that can make a significant impact on the decor.

As we slowly transition away from classic blush and green color schemes, it’s time to make way for the fresh wave of flowers leading the trends. Spoiler alert: They definitely skew a bit left of traditional, and we couldn’t be more on board.

With that, we tapped our network of ultra-cool floral designers, florists, and wedding experts to get the lowdown on the hues you’ll be seeing more of this year. Here’s what they had to say.

Moody browns and blush-toned neutrals

One would be hard-pressed to label brown as an appealing color, never mind designate it as the sole color scheme of a wedding. Nonetheless, it’s on the fast track toward becoming one of the trendiest hues of the year. Go figure.

“Brides are all about this nontraditional look, and we expect to see it stick around for a while,” says Lauren Megerdichian, weddings editor at Style Me Pretty. “Minimalistic and bohemian brides are especially going to take advantage of this fresh floral trend in their ceremony designs, centerpieces, and bridal bouquets.”

Designlovefest’s Bri Emery, who recently tied the knot in an Art Deco–themed ceremony in New Orleans, spearheaded the tonal trend with an inspired use of blush tones, mauves, and plenty of pampas grass, to boot.

Brooke Lucas of New York City–based floral design studio The Wild Bunch is here for the moodier florals: “I’m all about the spice tones that have taken over fashion and interior design—think: rust-colored ranunculus, mustard garden roses, and brown foliage.”

Muted blues

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKEY NEFF

Spencer Falls of The Unlikely Florist has spotted an uptick of blue florals—think: delphiniums, nigella, and anemone. “They’re a fresh take on the elegance of a traditional white wedding,” he explains, adding that the hue provides the opportunity to get creative with cool tonal pairings.

While diluting blues with softer colors is an option, we’re strongly in favor of a monochromatic bunch comprised of a subtle display of seasonal flowers. “We’re seeing a lot of vibrant hues, as well as monochromatic color palettes where the whole arrangement sticks to one main color,” says Angela Hamilton of 100 Layer Cake.

Peachy pinks and vibrant citrus-inspired hues

It’s only natural that Pantone’s 2019 COY, Living Coral, is represented among this year’s trending florals. You’ll see it played out by way of peonies—the ever-present crown flower of the wedding industry—and dahlias, especially when it comes to weddings held in late summer or autumn.

These colors are best displayed in bold and asymmetrical arrangements, dictated by the natural gesture and shape of the flowers, notes floral designer Sachi Rose Pollard. “I’m a huge fan of maximalism, which translates to trailing jasmine vine, Icelandic poppies, whimsical reflexed French tulips (reflexing is when you open a flower by folding the petals back), seasonal branches, and, of course, garden roses,” she says.

Rainbow and tinted blush

Imagine that. Now don’t take this one in its literal definition but rather envision it in the form of beautifully tinted florals in multicolored finishes.

According to Caroline Bailly of L’Atelier Rouge, baby’s breath is the prime contender for this trend. “Either rainbow or pink baby’s breath, displayed as a mass, has made a tremendous comeback,” the floral designer says.

“Baby’s breath hasn’t had the best reputation for a good long while, but it’s popping up in the most unexpected and stunning ways: dried, dyed, and full of volume,” adds Hamilton.

Mandy Moore’s epic backyard wedding was proof of this. The actress tied the knot beneath a blush-tinted arch, comprised of a massive structure of bunched baby’s breath. Tinted in soft pink, it provided a refreshing twist on the classic filler.

In fact, dyed flowers have been steadily on the rise this year, especially when it comes to bridal bouquets and centerpieces, says Lucas. “There are some beautiful dyed tulips and sweet peas, in chocolate tones, which give arrangements a very sophisticated, nuanced look,” the designer adds.

Here’s to wedding season and all the inspired arrangements it will bring.

]]>Anna KocharianThe Only Memorial Day Weekend Home Sales Worth Shoppinghttps://www.domino.com/content/best-memorial-day-weekend-sales-2019/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:59 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=138962It’s hard to believe, but we’re already approaching Memorial Day weekend. Instead of dwelling on the fact that this means we’re halfway through the year (nobody panic), let’s stay positive; MDW is also the unofficial start of summer. And while the meaning of the holiday has nothing to do with retail, it’s fortuitously a great time to save big on the investment furniture and finishing touches you’ve been putting off buying.

Whether you are moving into a new place and need to furnish it or on the hunt for a key home update, there are tons of Memorial Day sales to check out. In an effort to make your online shopping experience a little less overwhelming, we’ve curated our list of the best design discounts to know about—ahead, our favorites. Happy shopping and happy summer!

If you’ve been waiting to splash out on a living room update…

Article is offering up to 50 percent off on more than 150 items, valid through June 2. Consider this your chance to pick up a new sofa or cushy accent chair to give your living room a fresh look; after all, it’s moving season, and if your new apartment could use some bold style, there’s no better chance to splurge.

If your mattress has seen better days…

From now until May 27, Allswell is offering 30 percent off bedding and 15 percent off mattresses. Use the code SUMMER to cash in on a new mattress. The already-affordable piece will revolutionize your sleep—so in many ways, you’re buying yourself the gift of rest.

Head to Parachute: From May 24 to 27, the retailer has slapped a 20-percent-off price tag on the entire site. Use this discount on anything from plush bath towels to stylish kitchen textiles, though we recommend taking this opportunity to pick up some of the brand’s famous linen bedding. It’s the perfect lightweight style for summer.

If you’ve been putting off building your gallery wall…

From May 26 to 28, Society6 has a slew of discounts. The sale includes 40 percent off tapestries, posters, and throw pillows; 30 percent off art prints; and 20 percent off almost everything else (bar furniture and outdoor products). The brand just launched a collection of tiny prints that’s particularly delightful, if you’re stumped on where to start.

Try your hand at the divisive trend by picking up something from Lulu & Georgia’s site-wide sale, happening now until May 28. Its sale (which includes much more than rugs if your interests extend past textiles) operates on a scale: Orders of $300-plus get 15 percent off with the code GOOD; orders of $600-plus get 20 percent off with the code BETTER; and orders of $900-plus get 25 percent off with the code BEST.

If you’re about to decorate your first apartment…

Burrow is perfect for first apartments and small spaces alike, thanks to its flat-pack shipping and low prices—the latter of which is about to get even more affordable, thanks to the Memorial Day sale. Take 10 percent off site-wide until May 27. Also, orders of $1,400-plus get 15 percent off, and orders of $2,500-plus get 20 percent off—so there’s even a bigger incentive to splurge.

If you’re the balling-on-a-budget type…

There’s always IKEA. Through June 2, IKEA Family members get to save on a number of items, both in store and online. Some highlights: 20 percent off all outdoor furniture (for your summer barbecues), 20 percent off all cushions and cushion covers (for your seasonal refresh), and 15 percent off all custom countertops (for getting a kick-start on your dream kitchen).

If you’re committed to seeing the minimalist wave through…

Turn to Floyd for up to $150 off its signature Scandinavian-style pieces. Now through May 27, use the code MEMORIAL19 for $50 off all tables, $75 off beds, and $150 off sofas. Each item is simple sophistication at its finest.

]]>Elly LeavittThis Creative Couple’s Built-In Cat Shelves Are, Well, Purrfecthttps://www.domino.com/content/diy-cat-shelves-ikea/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:56 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139076Caitlin Mociun and Tammer Hijazi’s Brooklyn condo is filled with many inspiring custom builds, but, somehow, one of the simplest elements stands apart from the rest: the fur-lined cat shelves that Hijazi built when the couple decided to adopt a young Bengal cat named Miss Cleo.

The shelves, surprisingly, came before the cat—after all, good pet parents know to plan in advance.“We actually installed them before we even got her,” Mociun says. “She’s a Bengal, and we read that they are crazy climbers. I said, ‘Okay, if we get a Bengal, you have to build me a catwalk for the cat.’ That was my one requirement.”

Any cat owner is familiar with the unsightly oatmeal-colored cat towers that dominate the aisles of Petco—which is why this design-minded duo put some extra effort in going the DIY route. “We wanted something that wouldn’t look bad in our house. We looked into completely custom-making it, but we ended up using little wall shelves; the top ones are IKEA. It’s a hodgepodge of store-bought things,” Mociun explains. “I bought sheepskin pieces and cut those to cover the shelves, but in all honesty, if your cat goes on the shelves, don’t do this, because they will slip.”

That’s right: After all the effort that Mociun and Hijazi put into their custom-made cat shelves, their cat simply isn’t a climber. “Cleo has no interest in them whatsoever,” Mociun says, laughing. “She really loves to burrow. She loves to crawl under the covers.” This 1-year-old Bengal’s taste is, like many felines, admittedly a bit lowbrow. “My cat likes trash. We buy her toys all the time, and she’ll see the package they come in and think, Yes! Eventually, I was like, let’s just give her balls of paper.”

Still, Mociun stands behind her decision to install custom shelves for her kitty, and notes that for the right cat—“a cat that’s actually interested in climbing”—they’re pretty perfect. And despite Miss Cleo’s apathy for the custom build made just for her, Mociun admits that the shelves look pretty cool anyway: “That’s the reason why we haven’t taken them down. We thought, okay, we don’t really want to deal with it, but also, they don’t look bad!”

]]>Rebecca DeczynskiWho Knew JFK is Actually a Design Destination?https://www.domino.com/content/new-jfk-hotel/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:51 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139196Picture this: You’re whisked away in a chic, glass “flight tube” passageway and step out into another era (yes, you read that correctly, flight tubes can be chic). Suddenly, everything is retro-mod. Flight attendants dressed in vintage uniforms greet and lead you down to a cocktail lounge full of tulip chairs and martinis. Sam Cooke, the Foundations, and other 1960s favorites score your entrance. Welcome to the newly (re)opened TWA Hotel at JFK Airport, where, if it weren’t for the charging iPhones and occasional selfies, you’d think you were waiting for a flight with Twiggy. No wonder Louis Vuitton set its latest Resort collection show here last week.Photography by Emily Gilbert

Originally known as the TWA Flight Center, the splashy terminal was the vision of Scandi design great Eero Saarinen, whose architecture forever channels the golden era of jet-set cool.

Today everything from the floor tiles to the sunken lounge area peppered with Eames chairs has been restored by interior design firm Stonehill Taylor—elevating the property’s mod vibe of bright colorways (think: poppy red and gleaming white), rounded corners, and space-age accents with wood paneling and candy-stripe textiles. Take a seat and you can hear the click of the split-flap Solari boards overhead, or swing by the gift shop to flip through old Life magazines. And if that doesn’t make visitors nostalgic enough, the Ambassador’s Club and restaurants on the mezzanine level are all designed using (or inspired by) Saarinen’s original drawings and fabric swatches. In the guest rooms, his signature illuminated ceilings add a groovy touch.

Courtesy of TWA Hotel

The mod-chic trend is just taking off. At the new Standard Hotel in London, Shawn Hausman’s future-perfect design could have been dreamed up by Jane Jetson, with unexpected color combinations, geometric shapes, and mixed materials that instantly transport you back to the decade of Pop Art and boy bands (of the mop-top variety). We’ve even seen the futuristic vibe pop up in chandelier styles, where funky shapes and angles make the light fixtures almost look like UFOs. Clearly, retro is having a moment.

Photography by Emily Gilbert

Allow yourself to be whisked away by the vintage travel guides, primary colors, and black rotary telephones. Thoughtful design should tell a story of one’s personality, history, or, in this case, an entire decade altogether. You don’t have to be a design geek to enjoy the TWA Hotel (although you might turn into one afterward), you just have to be willing to throw yourself into an experience. And honestly, you may never want to return to 2019 again.

]]>Esmé SternCalling All Green Thumbs: Buy These Under-the-Radar Plants Before They Hit It Bighttps://www.domino.com/content/unique-house-plants/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:37 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=138724You don’t need to be a plant parent to know leafy greens are a great way to add a personal touch to your space. But while we love plants of all shapes and sizes, we can’t help but grow a bit tired of the latest crop of It greens.

Don’t get us wrong, we like fiddle-leaves and anthuriums as much as the next person. The problem is that they’re everywhere—literally, everywhere: your friend’s apartment, your corner café, that trendy boutique, Instagram…must we go on? When any trend—biophilic or not—becomes too ubiquitous, it runs the risk of seriously cramping your interior design game. Your home should be a direct reflection of your style, so why not fill it with plants that don’t feel so, well, mainstream.

That’s exactly why we turned to the pros for their favorite underrated greens. The five options below have the plant world’s seal of approval but have yet to hit it big. Go ahead, add ’em to your space and become your friend group’s go-to plant person overnight.

Instead of fiddle-leaf figs, try a ZZ plant

“When it comes to houseplants, one of my favorite picks is a ZZ plant. It’s full name is Zamioculcas zamiifolia, so you can see why the nickname is needed. It has dark green, glossy foliage that grows on eye-catching taller stalks. Placed in a gorgeous pot, it [can easily] dress up a space. The best part? It’s easy to care for, so you can skip a watering session (or two) in a pinch.” —Christina Stembel, founder and CEO of Farmgirl Flowers

Instead of anthurium, try bird-of-paradise

“The bird-of-paradise is definitely making a splash in the plant community. As long as these plants get plenty of bright, indirect light, they are relatively low maintenance. Their foliage makes such an impact in any room. They have consistently been one of our best-sellers.” —Joyce Mast, Bloomscape’s plant mom (yes, that’s her real title)

Instead of pothos, try calathea

“A calathea is a great way to add some unexpected color to your home. This plant is our absolute favorite—some species have pink striped leaves that look so beautiful you might assume they’re fake. A fun fact we choose to believe: Calatheas are said to remove toxins from the air.

This is a more fickle plant, though. It needs indirect sunlight and barely any water. After killing a few by trial and error, it seems the calathea prefers purified water. It’s worth the trouble; you will find guests inspecting your plant up close wondering if the multicolored hues are painted.” — Alexandra Sourbis and Jessica Rose, cofounders of Stemme Fatale

Instead of a snake plant, try mangave

“I’ve really been enjoying the more sun-demanding plants. Mangave have been on my list lately. While we’re often aware of hybridized plants in our homes and on the plant market, these are rather unique, as they’re a cross between two different plant genera (Agave and Manfreda).

They have really intriguing forms, with their radial growth habit and leaves that can boast both color and texture. Their wide range of forms makes it easy to have a truly unique statement plant that your friends can wonder over. Allow some space for these, as they can grow fairly broad. For me, they make a perfect accent on the floor near a sunny window at the base of plants in taller pots.” —Stephen Hill, manager of Sprout Home

Instead of English ivy, try oxalis

“My latest fixation is oxalis, or purple shamrock. It’s a low-maintenance houseplant that thrives with just minimal care but is also great in the garden. I am creating a garden that’s a mix of ferns and deep purple, almost black, flowers, and it works well with the purple spikes of Russian sage, euphorbia, and lady’s mantle.” —Alex Bates, cofounder and creative director of Bloomist

]]>Kelsey MulveyA Fashion Insider Schools Us on the Art of the Sicilian Dinner Partyhttps://www.domino.com/content/la-double-j-italian-dinner-ideas/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:36 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139246“The best Italian dinner parties are always a little bit rowdy and a little bit funny,” says J.J. Martin, the founder of La DoubleJ. As far as Italian entertaining goes, she knows best. More than 15 years ago, the former editor left America behind to marry an Italian and adopt the Milanese way of living. Every aspect of her experience since has been linked to her reeducation, of sorts: how to have the fabulous, carefree, bold, playful, and generous life of a typical Milanese woman.

“I was using my journalistic background to pierce under the surface of this incredible Italian lifestyle with a very Milanese focus,” she told Domino. “I interviewed all of these old-school madames, these legendary ladies. They’re the super-sophisticated housewives, and [I] got all their rules for living and dressing and entertaining.” Martin speaks passionately about Italians and their lust for life. The fast-paced world she left behind seems to pale in comparison to the vibrant Milanese universe she’s adopted as her own.

“The best Italian dinner parties are always a little bit rowdy and a little bit funny.”

The picture she paints of Italian dinner parties is nothing short of idyllic: children running around in palazzos and lush gardens; endless bouquets of flowers showing up at your doorstep throughout the day; intricate displays of cheeses, olive oils, cakes, wines, and traditional recipes—many of them fried, most of them carb heavy—all collected from Italian madames, local trattorias, and extended family. Affairs are always grand and last for hours, with dozens of fabulously dressed people gathering, laughing, and eating. Everything is informal; everything is over the top.

Courtesy of J.J. Martin

From the very beginning, Martin was fascinated with embodying the true essence of the Italian woman. First, she learned about the beauty of vintage prints and turned them into the captivating printed dresses she would don for dinner parties and eventually sell online. At home, she was learning how to cook and entertain, so a dinnerware line followed suit. Today, La DoubleJ is quintessentially Italian in essence: exuberant and colorful.

Martin is now expanding her horizons beyond Milan to other regions of Italy. Earlier this spring, she hosted a pop-up event in Sicily at Mario Dell’Oglio’s Palermo store. The 10th-generation Sicilian and man-about-town welcomed her in style: in a large palazzo with 75 of his closest (fabulously dressed) friends, mountains of panelle, and endless local hospitality and charm. “Sicilians are the most welcoming Italians in the entire country,” says Martin. “They are the most incredible hosts you could ever imagine, and they’re so generous.” Ahead, the fashion insider shares everything she learned about entertaining like a true Italian.

The More the Merrier

Courtesy of J.J. Martin

“In Italy, the concept is the more the merrier,” says Martin. “No one wouldn’t think twice about bringing another friend to your dinner party, whether it’s a seated dinner for eight people or a buffet for 80. It’s just very much appreciated for someone to bring a friend. Whereas in America, I know friends of mine who would lose their minds if I brought an extra guest to their dinner party.” The Italians often plan dinner parties at the very last minute and are extremely laid-back in everything they do, which makes everyone feel at ease.

They also always have more food than necessary and always improvise. “They’re great at spontaneity, because they’re not big planners and they think on their feet,” says Martin. “It took me a while to get used to, but now I actually prefer it. I really believe that whomever brings extra people to my party is always an added benefit. It’s only a downer when you try to control it.”

It Takes a Village

Courtesy of J.J. Martin

Courtesy of J.J. Martin

“Women here don’t just develop a relationship with the people working inside their homes; they develop a relationship with the butcher and the cheese guy,” muses Martin. “One woman in Palermo served the best caponata, which is an eggplant dish from Sicily, and we asked her where to get it. And she goes, ‘My butcher’s wife makes it for me!’ You can’t go to the shop to get it, you have to ask your butcher’s wife to make it for you.”

“No one wouldn’t think twice about bringing another friend to your dinner party, whether it’s a seated dinner for eight people or a buffet for 80.”

The relationships that Italians build go beyond their food purveyors. The household staff becomes an extension of your family and knows exactly how to set the table and prepare meals exactly to your liking. Family, even children, are also involved in preparing the food, setting the table, and participating in meals that often last for hours.

Come Bearing Gifts

Americans like to bring wine to dinner. The French will often send a thoughtful bouquet of flowers the day after an event. But the Italians have a unique approach to gifting: “I host this Italian-American Thanksgiving every November, and I have 60 people at my house,” says Martin. “Half the guests send flowers to my house during the day so I have time to prepare them, arrange them, and put them around my house rather than everyone showing up with flowers when you’re totally crazed in the middle of the party.”

Dell’Oglio, the man behind the Palermo pop-up, brings a giant cassata cake to Milan each Thanksgiving. “The entire party goes crazy over this cake. He carries it on the plane each year directly from Palermo. It’s huge, bigger than a pizza box. And he’s so proud; it’s really, really cute. He is just the most fun-loving, fabulous Italian. He could not be more quintessential,” says Martin. She notes that no one in Italy would dare show up empty-handed. Her go-to gifts, naturally, stem from La DoubleJ goods: nylon pouches, espresso cups, printed napkins—but Italians are also known to bring a bottle from their yearly stock of olive oil or wine, often made by a friend or family member.

Focus on the Food

Courtesy of J.J. Martin

The food at Italian dinner parties is thoughtful and plentiful. “I learned the art of the aperitivo from the Italians,” says Martin. “It’s not just about doing cocktails and serving some nuts and chips. It’s like a mini meal that you prepare. They probably do it because they eat so late. I usually like to have an aperitif and then go to bed.” The art of aperitivo involves simple things, like huge blocks of Parmesan that lasts for months and fresh, in-season ingredients. Meals go on for hours. “Even the lunches that my mother-in-law makes are just endless. She has two kinds of pasta, then she’ll have a rabbit, then veal, then potatoes, then artichokes, then a green salad—it’s so funny,” adds Martin.

Martin, who didn’t quite know how to cook when she moved to Italy, has made a habit of sourcing recipes wherever she goes. In Sicily, she picked up a pasta sauce recipe made from purple onions, tomatoes, olives, and local Pantelleria capers: “It’s literally the best sauce on earth.” Dishes vary by region, so collecting recipes is a great way to learn about regional cooking. “The food is so much heavier in Palermo than the food in Milan. In Sicily, they fry half of what they give you. But it’s so delicious that you’re like, ‘Bring it on.’ Everything is sort of exaggerated,” she says. Arancini, cannoli, and cassata are all Sicilian delicacies made, essentially, of fried carbs. If you needed one last push to make you throw in the towel and move to Italy, this is it.

]]>Gabrielle Savoie6 Steps for Styling Your Entryway Like Garance Doréhttps://www.domino.com/content/garance-dore-entryway-decor/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:32 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139090When Garance Doré decided to put down permanent roots in Mar Vista, California, she did so with the intention of fostering a space that was warm and welcoming upon arrival. With interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel at her side, the Corsican native and former New Yorker took a layered approach to her newly renovated home with thick pink sofas, creamy white Moroccan rugs, and basket pendant lights. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

Doré’s SoCal story begins where all good first impressions do—in the entryway. Grounded in good vibes, her sunny entry doesn’t attempt to deviate from its coastal roots: A pair of bespoke surfboards hangs beneath the staircase; the console is peppered with hand-thrown ceramics; low-maintenance greenery lurks in the corner.

“I think the surfboards are special because they grab your attention right away, and they also give the whole vibe of the house, that laid back Californian spirit,” says Doré. “But the console is also very special because it’s light enough that the sunlight doesn’t get blocked. So there is a lot of flow and a natural welcoming tone!”

Finding balance was key for Samuel and San Francisco–based stylist Rosy Strazzeri Fridman, who saw the graphic nature of the lacquered surfboards opposite the console table as an opportunity for tone-on-tone styling. “We all tend to want to display art in hallways; however, if it’s narrow it can feel busy. That’s why we decided to put texture on the wall,” explains Fridman. Ben and Aja Blanc’s half-moon fiber mirror delivered immediate warmth. “The shape of the mirror allowed us to accommodate Garance’s existing lamp without too much overlap,” she adds.

While perfectly curated spaces like this can often feel unattainable, Doré applied the same approach to the entry as she did the rest of her home: It doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. Shop the style icon’s dreamy entryway, below.

Lay the Foundation

The power of opposing materials is not lost on husband-wife design duo Ben and Aja Blanc. Now a staple in stylish entryways the world over, the pair’s beloved fiber and glass mirror is basically ASMR for the home. The piece’s sheer size and tactile nature make it an obvious focal point for a wall.

Make Room for Function

The beauty of an entryway is that it can be as functional or minimal as you like. That said, more storage is never a bad thing, and console tables get the job done (and look good doing it). Featuring both drawers and shelves, this beautiful maple option offers enough room to display treasured objects and hide unwanted clutter. Its simple silhouette and light wash sets the tone for the neutral accessories that adorn its surface.

“The reason we went with tone-on-tone styling is that the left side [of the hallway] is so busy. A calmer moment on the opposite wall allows a graphic moment on the left,” says Fridman.

Light the Way

Inspired by Japanese stone lanterns and fence posts, Doré’s existing CB2 table lamp facilitated the zen moment Samuel and Fridman were hoping to achieve. Not wanting to detract from the statement mirror, its slender linen shade was also a big plus.

Anchor Empty Shelving

Los Angeles–based ceramist Heather Rosenmann’s vessels veer toward the prehistoric. The hieroglyphic-like etchings lend a sense of depth to a stone-cold object that might otherwise read as flat. The heavy vessel looks best when displayed alongside low-sitting objects, like large books or a tray of trinkets.

Pepper in Storied Elements

Whether sourced from your personal travels or purchased from your favorite boutique, handmade accessories bring a sense of soul to the table that mass-market products just can’t. Psst: It doesn’t even have to qualify as a home good to serve a purpose in your entryway. Crafted from indigo-dyed linen cloth and woven together with shells and coiled brass, this belt made by the Akusan women of the Philippines livens up a simple ceramic tray.

Layer Like Objects

Your eye naturally works its way across a vignette in pieces. While it’s soothing to see juxtaposition when you’re standing far away, your focus gravitates toward sameness when viewing a tableau up close. Placing like-minded objects next to one another is an easy way to convey cohesion. In Doré’s case, the CB2 lamp, a creamy white vase by BZippy & Co., and this chain-link sculpture make the perfect team.

]]>Lydia Geisel5 Luxurious Outdoor Showers That Give Bathtubs a Run for Their Moneyhttps://www.domino.com/content/outdoor-showers/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:24 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139217For far too long now, showers have had the misleading reputation of not being luxurious. Instead, bathtubs receive all the credit (and that’s just not fair). In order to draw the perfect bath, you have to figure out the ideal water temperature, get the water levels just right, even conduct a science experiment around essential oils or salts. It’s a lot of work, and frankly, it’s too much stress.

Showers are luxurious because of their ease, and that’s especially true of an outdoor shower. There’s nothing more calming (in the realm of good hygiene) than showering with the warm sun on your skin and the breeze in your hair. And the best part? All you have to do is step under running water. We found six outdoor showers we wouldn’t mind spending a few relaxing minutes in, from the beach houses on Long Island to the coast of Australia to the rural retreats of California. One look at these and we bet bathtubs won’t seem so luxe after all.

If you want to blend in…

Courtesy of Tim Melideo

This outdoor shower, which belongs to designer Melissa Young of My Studio ID, blends into the desert surroundings of her home in Borrego Springs, California. The copper pipes match the detailed wall light overhead and provide a sheen against the terracotta color of the wall.

If you want something tropical…

Photo by SOUL of Gerringong

This laid-back shower in a vacation rental on the Australian coast boasts the beauty of outdoor simplicity. With nothing more than a basic showerhead and a place to stand, this example’s straightforward approach lets the lush greenery command the scene.

If you want options…

Photo by Seth Smoot

Let’s say you’re torn between the prospect of a quick shower and a more leisurely bath. This outdoor solution manages to make room for both, thanks to a mint-colored tub and a gold-finished faucet. How’s that for the best of both worlds?

If you want something traditional…

It doesn’t get more traditional than this outdoor shower from Robert Young Architects, which sits alongside a property in Amagansett, New York. The white siding and wood shingles epitomize an Americana setting, and the clever stalls invite more than one swimmer to rinse off at once.

If you want something convenient…

Photo by Alicia Taylor; Interior Designer by Emma Lane Architects

This minimalist outdoor shower, which is also set in Australia, is built on a private deck that’s connected to a master ensuite. So, it makes for an ideal place to rinse off before heading inside, where you could take a bath—if you so please.

]]>Kelly DawsonThis Is the One Mistake You’re Probably Making With Your Plantshttps://www.domino.com/content/cleaning-plant-leaves/
Fri, 24 May 2019 11:00:08 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139015Your precious plant baby is surrounded by soil at all times, so what will a few more dust particles do? Turns out, potentially a lot. Failing to wipe down your plants can have devastating, if not catastrophic, effects on your greenery. (Why aren’t more people talking about this?!) It has everything to do with a little thing you learned in third grade called photosynthesis.

“Plants breathe through little pores called stomata on their leaves,” says Erin Marino, director of brand marketing at The Sill. These tiny pores can become clogged with dust and dirt over time, not entirely unlike your skin, which gets blemishes when residue and dirt block pores. The difference is that plants don’t get pimples; their clogged pores can lead to suffocation and maybe even death. If clogged pores weren’t enough to worry about, itty-bitty plant pests can also wreak havoc on leaves. They can be caused by poor hygiene, but usually it’s just part of nature taking its course.

Every type of greenery is a world unto itself, so consider the frequency and method of cleaning on a case-by-case basis. If you really want to stay on top of it, clean your plants as often as you deep clean your home, and consider doing a shower or deep wash at the start of every season. Larger-leaf plants, like fiddle-leaf figs, are pretty quick to clean with a large duster weekly, while pothos are naturally waxy-leafed and won’t need cleaning as often—thus, approach each of your plant babies individually. To assess how dirty your greenery is, gently rub your fingers along the leaves and analyze. It’s also a good time to get up close and personal with your plant; consider it scheduled maintenance, when you can study and inspect for damage, environmental-caused unhappiness, or disease.

Start With a Damp Cloth

“We recommend wiping plants down with a damp cloth or sponge every month or two,” says Marino. Make sure the cloth is damp and not soaking wet. Support each and every beloved leaf with your hand gently as you wipe both the top and underneath. The top is where most of the dust will gather, but the underside is where the majority of pests hang out. This might be a touch laborious with heavily leafed greenery, but consider it precious one-on-one time with your plant child.

Gently Swipe With a Feather Duster

Each plant is special, but some can be easy to clean frequently, like ZZ plants or monsteras. These large, leafy fellas benefit from their size in that you can run a Swiffer or feather duster over them every one or two weeks to keep dust at bay. Gently dust the top and underside of the leaves to keep your baby bright and green and photosynthesizing. Marino says you can (adorably) use a soft paint or makeup brush to employ this method on more delicate plants, too.

Clean Even Deeper With Soap

If you’ve got really stubborn plants that are difficult to scrub clean or you detect traces of pests such as mites, turn to soap. Grab a gentle dish soap and lather it up on a cloth. The soap will be able to cut through grime easier on the leaves, while still being gentle enough. Same rules still apply—go over the top and underneath the leaves, then rinse with a clean, damp cloth to remove all the soap excess.

When in Doubt, Give Them a Shower

If it works for you, it will probably work well for your plants. A quick, deliberate run under water is especially ideal for delicate or difficult-to-wipe leaves, like ferns, palms (hard to thoroughly wipe), or even orchids. But most plants will enjoy at least one (or a few) showers a year to start afresh. After all, they take showers in nature when it rains.

Let lukewarm water run, then bring the greenery into the shower and give it a quick rinse. Make sure you get the top and underneath the leaves, then soak the soil until it drains out the bottom. This rinse is an easy way to ensure your plant is squeaky clean and bug-free, as well as able to absorb more oxygen and sunshine.

]]>Kristin LimogesTo Boost Your Productivity, Maybe Don’t Blast the Air-Conditioninghttps://www.domino.com/content/air-conditioning-productivity/
Thu, 23 May 2019 21:17:42 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139256For women who work in offices, summertime brings about a typical ritual: Sweaters, scarves, and sometimes even blankets are brought to work and draped over a chair or otherwise kept in easy reach for the point in the day when a 65-degree cubicle starts to become a bit unbearable in lightweight clothing. Now a new study reported on by The Atlantic shows that this practice isn’t just comfort driven. Women are more productive in toastier temperatures.

Before you head over to a sweat lodge to brainstorm your next great idea, allow us to explain. The most recent study on this phenomenon, which was published in the journal PLOS One, tested more than 500 college students as they took different types of exams in rooms that varied in temperature, from 61 to 91 degrees. For both verbal and math tests, women performed better with warmer temperatures (even a difference of just one degree made a big difference), though men did best with cooler temperatures.

While average office temperatures hover between 68 to 76 degrees, the recommended thermostat temperature for homes in summer months is 78 degrees. That might sound a tad toasty, but a bit of discipline can help you save money on air-conditioning and help you focus better on your work.

If you’re working or studying at home, a warm, cozy environment might just be what you need to power through your to-do list. You may even want to cuddle up in a fun throw, too.

]]>Rebecca DeczynskiThis Month’s Best IKEA Find Only Costs $3.99https://www.domino.com/content/ikea-pride-month-bag/
Thu, 23 May 2019 18:24:46 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139135Sometimes we go to IKEA because we need a new coffee table or want to freshen up the sofa with a troop of throw pillows. Most of the time we’re there to add another FRAKTA bag to your never-ending collection.

Over the years, IKEA’s iconic blue hold-all tote has undergone a number of feel-good changes, but its latest makeover is by far our favorite. In anticipation for Pride Month, the Swedish retailer has teamed up with the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF) to create a limited-edition rainbow tote. One hundred percent of the profits from the new KVANTING shopping bag will go to HRCF’s programs that support LGBT+ children, youth, and families. At just $3.99, we can’t think of an easier way to show your pride this summer—and beyond.

“We believe equality is a fundamental human right and that all homes are created equal,” Rafael Fantauzzi, the diversity and inclusion manager for IKEA U.S., shared in a statement. “We know everyone deserves a home you absolutely love and a workplace where you can be yourself.”

The launch of the limited-edition totes will coincide with the beginning of Pride Month on June 1. The profits received from the sale will go toward existing programs that support training and consultation with schools, child welfare agencies, and others that strive to incite positive change in businesses and tackle discrimination.

“It has never been more important to commit to doing more to protect, affirm and uplift LGBTQ youth, who are at increased risk of bullying, homelessness and violence compared to their non-LGBTQ peers,” says Ellen Kahn, director of the HRC Foundation’s Children, Youth, and Families program.

While we’re suckers for anything clad in the rainbow, IKEA’s initiative goes beyond colorful carry-alls. If you can’t join the celebration with a newly minted KVANTING, check out HRCF’s site to learn how you can donate directly.

]]>Lydia GeiselA Condiment Lazy Susan Is Exactly the Niche Tool Your Kitchen Is Missinghttps://www.domino.com/content/lazy-susan-the-home-edit/
Thu, 23 May 2019 17:03:08 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139072The first time I saw a lazy Susan used for condiments was in my grandmother’s house. Its tenants included olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a range of half-eaten jams, raw honey, and, of course, some oregano—a true gallimaufry of random pantry staples. It kept a corner cabinet neatly organized and frequently made appearances on the dining table so people could pick their breakfast accoutrement of choice. It was a smart idea, but for whatever reason I haven’t seen it anywhere since.

That is until I came across The Home Edit’s just-launched collaboration with The Container Store. A match made in organizational heaven, the 18-piece collection includes everything you need to tidy up all the rooms in your house, though the breakout star has to be the 9-inch acrylic lazy Susan. I immediately wanted it the second I saw it: the tiny tool that would revolutionize my kitchen’s cabinets.

For one, the size is perfect. Nine inches is ideal for more narrow, cramped cabinets (like the ones afflicting my rental), fitting neatly within the confines. If not in use inside my cupboards, I could also see it being a helpful addition to my kitchen cart, as a countertop storage method for taller bottles that don’t fit with shelving.

Also, I have a lot of condiments. What can I say? I love my olive oil. But impulse purchases, like rosemary-infused honey and sun-dried tomato pesto, stack up quickly. It’s hard to see what I have, which can either lead to me buying duplicates or totally forgetting about something and letting it expire. This clear lazy Susan keeps everything within view and easy reach.

Given that having a clutter-free home can help manage stress levels, the usefulness of seemingly niche tools like this is a small step toward a larger positive change. And when it comes to decluttering, we trust the organizational wizards at The Home Edit implicitly; head on over to your nearest Container Store (or shop the collection online) to pick up your own condiment wunderkind and see for yourself. Meet you on the checkout line.

]]>Elly LeavittThe Best Part of Glossier’s New Seattle Pop-Up Has Nothing To Do with Boy Browhttps://www.domino.com/content/glossier-seattle-store/
Thu, 23 May 2019 15:49:27 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=139044Walking into the new Glossier retail experience in Seattle, you might be confused. Part moss-covered forest, part makeup and skincare boutique, it’s a visual feast. Picture the brand’s beloved pastel-colored tubes and bottles displayed on simple white plinths that emerge from lush foliage dotted with wildflowers.

“Glossier Seattle was directly inspired by the city’s natural environment; almost every local we spoke to mentioned their love of the city’s landscape and, as we explored the area ourselves, we couldn’t help but feel the same,” says Kendall Latham, senior environments designer at Glossier. “We were also very intrigued by the juxtaposition of nature and technology in Seattle, and decided to design specific elements to amplify that contrast.”

Courtesy of Glossier

This inspiration is presented in the form of meadow-like hills full of locally-sourced flowers, all packed in a snug retail shopping experience. “Washington is home to remarkable mountain ranges and breathtaking natural beauty,” says Lily Kwong, founder of Studio Lily Kwong, the landscape designer of the space. “It’s peak wildflower season, and we wanted to bring that feeling of wilderness into Glossier’s world,” she says.

To bring an outdoor experience inside, Kwong and her team studied the local flora, then mimicked the area’s vegetation and palette by hand-placing hundreds of plants in the installation, then covering the rest of the area with live moss. “It’s not typical to walk into a beauty store that’s filled with rolling meadows of live plants and flowers,” says Latham. “That kind of immersive experience is what sparks curiosity and conversation, be it with the friend you brought to the store or the stranger trying a product across from you.”

Courtesy of Glossier

Seattle’s opening is the second in 2019, and the follow-up to the brand’s spring Miami pop-up, which drew inspiration from the city’s iconic Art Deco architecture and pastel shades for max Instagrammable moments. Seattle’s decor is every bit, if not more, photo-friendly.

Want to recreate these lush-forest vibes at home? There are lessons to be pulled from the outdoor-meets-indoors design, like how moss can be utilized as a floral decor element. “You can buy all kinds of beautiful clump moss online and create your own terrarium, or even just place mood moss into a beautiful bowl and use it as a centerpiece for a table,” says Kwong. Did Kwong and Glossier just make a statement that moss is the trending plant for 2019? We’re onboard if they are.

Glossier Seattle is located at 200 Broadway E, and open from May 22nd to July 7th.

]]>Kristin LimogesThe Founder of Hem Lives for Japanese Sandals and Exfoliating Hand Soapshttps://www.domino.com/content/petrus-palmer-hem/
Thu, 23 May 2019 11:00:56 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=138895We all have that one friend we go to for great recommendations. From the best-smelling candle to the next big furniture maker or the new natural skin-care brand, they always know best. In 10 Things, we ask our favorite creatives to share the discoveries that make them happy so you can track down fantastic daily essentials, too.

For Petrus Palmér, happiness revolves around the home. This is also the essence of his brand, Hem (“home” in Swedish), a Stockholm-based independent design brand and purveyor of minimalist but thoughtfully designed furniture, lighting, and accessories created by some of today’s best designers. For Palmér and his family, home is a remodeled blacksmith’s workshop in Stockholm, which he has somehow managed to make feel like a countryside retreat in the heart of the city.

Over the years, he’s filled his home with things he loves: impeccably designed speakers for unwinding with music at night, furniture from iconic 20th-century designers, and little luxuries in the form of indulgent exfoliating hand soaps. As the CEO of a rapidly growing furniture brand, Palmér also spends a lot of time on the road, so he always tries to take the comforts of home with him: a well-crafted suitcase, a signature scent, and staple sunglasses. In the summer, he finds happiness on the water: His love of sailing runs deep.

Amid the chaotic and fast-paced business world, Palmér has found quiet and contentment both at home and away. These are the 10 things that make him happy no matter where he is.

The Design Bible

“Brutalism has produced some of the most incredible buildings on the planet despite being mocked and misunderstood in so many ways. This oversize book captures a number of stunning examples of Brutalist architecture—it deserves a place on every design and architecture nerd’s coffee table.”

The Downtime Must-Have

“Unwinding at home with music is the ultimate luxury, and the OD-11 is one of the best home sound systems on the market. It’s a reengineered version of the original OD-11 Ortho directional loudspeaker, made in 1974 by Swedish sound genius Stig Carlsson.”

The Modern Throne

“Another favorite in the way of furniture design is Bellini’s Le Bambole chair. It’s hard not to covet these, if for no other reason than Bellini is king and these chairs look like understated thrones!”

The Summer Sailing Staple

“As we gear up for summer in Sweden, I have my eye on sandals from the Japanese brand Suicoke. I love how exaggerated the nylon straps are, but the shoe is also quite functional. We do a lot of sailing, so these are a great option for being out on the water.”

The Statement Piece

“This table might be one of the most beautiful items I’ve ever seen, both in terms of form (it’s just a single slab atop a conical base) but also materiality. Kooij takes sustainable design to the next level by compressing discarded chairs, vases, cabinets, and more into an indestructible table.”

The Creative Shades

“I’m a big fan of Gentle Monster. The designs are great and it has done some amazing collaborations over the years. These frames in particular are my favorite: classic in many ways, but still a standout pair.”

]]>Gabrielle SavoieMaybe You Should Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets Many, Many Different Colorshttps://www.domino.com/content/colorful-kitchens/
Thu, 23 May 2019 11:00:41 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=138869All-white or all-wood cabinets are typically an easy choice in a kitchen. They’re simple and timeless, so you won’t get tired of them, right? Well, perhaps not.

Sure, it might be the safe choice to stick to classics in the kitchen, but there’s something compelling about a color-blocked look that makes the prospect of painting all your cabinets a different color feel extremely exciting. After all, if you ever get tired of it, you can just paint over them—but something tells us that this playful trend is only poised to grow more popular.

You don’t have to rip out your cabinets and install new ones to get this look; some types of paint work just fine! If your cabinets are already laminated (as are many from IKEA), just be sure to use a shellac-based primer or chalk paint (which doesn’t require a primer)—otherwise your paint won’t hold and it will likely peel right off. If you’re willing to invest in custom cabinetry, however, you can get cabinets in the colors of your choosing without having to put in the elbow grease.

For the most modern look, this trend works best with slab-style cabinets, as the grooves found in Shaker-style or even beadboard ones can overcomplicate the color-blocked effect of the kitchen as a whole. Keep the style simple and have fun with color, and the end result should look just right. Now, time to pick those colors.

For all-over autumn vibes

Stockholm-based design studio Bedow designed this entirely custom kitchen using a pine plywood frame and cabinet fronts made out of Valchromat, a type of engineered colorful wood. For the DIY version, start with light wood cabinets and paint only the doors.

For a diverse display

Another totally custom design, this kitchen by Belgian architect Dries Otten shows that a mix of plywood, perfoboard, and laminated doors works to create a distinctly playful area. Consider this proof that accent colors need not match nor appear more than once in a space. A soft panel of blush ties everything together.

For ultimate drama

If you want a high-impact look, go all out by color-blocking your entire cabinet arrangement. This design by Dries Otten keeps things fresh with a selection of five very different, very vibrant hues. If you go bold on your cabinets, don’t be afraid to throw in some more refined details, too. Here, a subtle rainbow terrazzo countertop and a brass backsplash are the chef’s kiss.

For small-space revitalization

Just because you don’t have a lot of cabinet space doesn’t mean you have to play it safe. Polish design firm In Architekci livens up a primarily blue kitchen with a column of light teal and a touch of baby pink. A few peeks of wood paneling give it additional depth.

For an updated classic

Mahogany cabinets may be timeless, but Veneer Designs proves that a few pops of color go a long way to making them feel more contemporary. The shades and spacing of the accent cabinets feel serendipitous, but additional accents throughout the open-concept kitchen and living room pull it all together.

For an on-trend pairing

We can’t get enough blue and orange, and the combination feels just right in this breezy custom Australian kitchen by Woodbeast. Four large-scale, strategically placed colorful panels on both cabinets and island are enough to make this kitchen distinctive.

For an immersive approach

Dare you use the same color on your countertops as you do on your floors? This space, imagined by Yaroslav Priadka, makes a compelling case to do exactly that. Yellow and blue might not be your go-to combination, but when the colors are muted they can work well together. A little bit of taupe mellows things out a bit, too.

It used to be that an engagement ring was enough to prove you’re getting married. Now nothing is official until you have a comprehensive Pinterest board. After all, you don’t know true love until you’ve stayed up until 3 a.m. fervently pinning images of hoop bouquets and contemplating the pros and cons of rose gold cake toppers, right?

But before shareable mood boards were a thing, there was good old-fashioned creativity—something that’s easy to lose sight of if you rely on Pinterest for every stage of the planning process. This Denise Jin and Molly Kang know well. When the pair joined forces nearly three years ago to found Floravere, a direct-to-consumer wedding dress company, they built their brand on the unexpected. Their first-ever brick-and-mortar store, which recently opened in New York’s Tribeca neighborhood, is their latest stab at a luxury industry that rarely steps out of stride.

Part retail space and part stylish apartment, the curated outpost is brimming with fresh ideas. The bride’s friends and family can pull up a velvet club chair, lounge on a mid-century daybed, or rest their coffee on an Eny Lee Parker table as they wait patiently in between fittings. Up front is a rotating display of floral installations—the arrangements are changed weekly by Brooklyn-based Extrafloral. Noguchi lanterns and vintage rugs lend a sense of warmth to the private dressing room.

“With our New York flagship, we wanted to create a retail experience and really rethink what it feels like to go dress shopping,” says Jin. “Traditional boutiques feel a bit like bridal factories. We wanted to present an experience that was much more personal, intimate, and calm…like a haven for brides.”

If there’s one thing we learned from Floravere’s shop, it’s that Jin and Kang are perfectly content with tossing out the rule book. Ahead, Jin breaks down five spring wedding ideas you won’t find riddled across your feed.

Soaring Floral Installations

Atmosphere is an important part of a reception, but that doesn’t mean you have to go overboard with the table arrangements and string lights. “We’re seeing a lot of sculptural hanging installations,” shares Jin, noting she currently has her eye on a wispy execution by Studio Mondine.

Cloud-like chandeliers composed exclusively of florals—think: pink roses, peonies, and white hydrangeas for spring—will add a storybook touch to your soiree and let you explore a more minimal approach to the tablescape. But if your green thumb feels so inclined, swap the blossoms for vegetation. “We’ve also seen a number of weddings with all greenery and no flowers at all,” adds Jin. Indulge your inner gardener with a sea of large succulent arrangements for a low-maintenance look your guests will be begging to take home.

Wedding Parties That Blur Gender Lines

Assembling a wedding party can be just as stressful as drawing up the seating arrangement. Luckily, the unspoken rules need not apply for 21st-century couples, who continue to test tradition with bridesmen and groomsmaids. “We’re increasingly seeing couples assemble their bridal parties across gender lines so that each partner can incorporate those closest and most meaningful to them in their party, regardless of their gender,” says Jin.

Incorporate this popular color family on the table with bold centerpieces comprised of amethyst-colored garden roses and dahlias, turquoise napkins, and a hand-dyed violet runner.

Phone-Free Ceremonies

Guests will remember your big day for what it was, not the cheeky hashtag you created to mark the occasion. As ceremonies become more personalized and relaxed, couples are leaning into their own rules regarding privacy. “In an effort to help guests be truly present and engaged, it’s increasingly common and encouraged to ask all guests to turn off or even physically ‘check’ their phones at the door,” says Jin.

Remind guests to unplug and be present during the ceremony with a custom calligraphed sign to match your decor.

Bridal Pants and Rompers

Gowns aren’t gone for good, but when it comes to wardrobe protocol, Jin and Kang are excited to see the traditional “bridal uniform” take a turn with versatile silhouettes and unconventional colors. “Think outside the dress!” says Jin. “Women today are increasingly redefining what a bride looks like, embracing options like bridal pants and rompers, or cross-cultural ensembles such as a red wedding dress.”

Of course, there’s also the trend of having not one but two distinctwedding outfits, because why should you have to decide between strapless and sleeves? In lieu of doubling your budget, Jin suggests opting for one dress (or romper or suit) that meets you halfway.

“To make that transition even more seamless and budget friendly, brides are loving two-in-one looks,” she explains. A removable overskirt or removable topper will let you go from a fairy-tale ceremony to a modern after-party without requiring two totally different outfits.

“Just know that there are no real rules for what a bride looks like,” continues Jin. “Our message to brides at Floravere is that if you feel like endless rows of similar-looking, strapless, poufy white dresses are not speaking to you, that is more than okay. There are brands like us that are redefining what it looks and feels like to be a bride, so don’t be afraid to question any of the shoulds or should nots.”

]]>Lydia GeiselI’m Determined to Grow a Citrus Tree in My Tiny Apartment—Can It Be Done?https://www.domino.com/content/indoor-lemon-tree-tips/
Thu, 23 May 2019 11:00:13 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=138914I don’t have a great track record with plants. The mini succulents I bought during my fourth year of university perished in rapid succession, despite claims that their kind is “unkillable.” The trio of plants that I thought I was rescuing from the Lowe’s clearance section for my first apartment met similarly untimely deaths. Evidently, a life in the dark shelves of a hardware store was preferable to spending a week on my windowsill. Call it a difference of opinion.

All this to say: I don’t have the wherewithal to bring home a larger plant—but I can’t stop thinking about growing a citrus tree. I’m from Greece, a country that holds the humble lemon in such high regard that it may as well be on our flag. Citrus trees are nostalgic and instantly remind me of summer; the combination of their vibrant fruit and fragrant flowers is positively enticing. Plus, my plant-less apartment is a disgrace to my millennial demographic. It needs some form of greenery, but is having a citrus tree in a New York apartment possible?

“Impossible, no. Hard, yes!” she says. “When growing any plant indoors, it’s important to consider where it naturally grows outside and determine if you can re-create that kind of environment.” For citrus, she explains, this would be sunny climates like the Mediterranean or Florida: places with regular rainfall and high sun, aka definitely not my sixth-floor walk-up on the Upper West Side.

But “hard” is not “impossible,” and I am nothing if not stubborn. I chatted with Bullene to get the lowdown on growing a citrus tree—past just the typical lemon plant—in an apartment for my best shot at keeping my future plant alive and well.

What’s the best environment in which to grow a citrus tree?

Fake it till you make it: You might not reside in coastal Florida, but try to mimic the environment as much as possible. Very bright light, like an unobstructed south-facing window, is key here, as citrus trees require full sun and warm temperatures.

If your apartment doesn’t get a lot of light, Bullene recommends a grow light. “It promotes even growth, and citrus really can’t get too much light,” she explains. “The more they get, the more productive they are.”

Aside from light, is there another environmental factor to be aware of?

Keep those windows open: “Citrus doesn’t generally do well in stagnant air,” warns Bullene. “They like a breeze, which helps keep dust off the leaves, but can also help to hold pests at bay.” If you (understandably) don’t want to keep your window open while you’re at work during the day, try a light rotating fan for a few hours each day.

What’s the watering schedule like?

Demanding, that’s what. According to Bullene, watering is the most complicated part of caring for citrus, as these finicky plants don’t like to be too moist or too dry. Pick a sweet spot (preferably something on the drier side) and stick with it.

To manage the watering schedule, the plant expert recommends subirrigated containers, pointing specifically to Lechuza’s options as favorites. “It makes it really easy, as the plant drinks from the water reservoir rather than being dependent on the water you pour on top of the soil,” says Bullene. “Many professional horticulturists will also add a top dressing to citrus, to ensure the fine surface roots near the top don’t get too dry.” Oh, and don’t forget to mist your plant often.

Is there a type of citrus tree most conducive to living indoors?

“In my experience, I’ve had success with Meyer lemons and Calamondin oranges,” says Bullene. “These are both dwarf trees, so they won’t get too big for small spaces.” Pick something that won’t overpower a smaller apartment and decide which part is most important to you: the actual taste of the fruit or the aesthetic appeal of the plant. If the latter, go with the orange tree, whose fruits are actually super-sour. If the former, opt for a lemon tree.

Are there any common afflictions that befall citrus trees?

Yes, and they’re called spider mites. These tiny critters (do yourself a favor and don’t Google their appearance) are apparently very common on indoor citrus trees. To fight them, Bullene says you need to keep a close eye on your plant for any early signs of webbing. To get rid of these pesky mites, clean the plant with horticultural soap and water.

What do you do in the wintertime?

“This is where the grow light is really important!” says Bullene. Especially for northern climates, which don’t get great sun exposure in the colder months, these artificial lights are key. Without sun, your citrus tree will weaken, which is what the aforementioned spider mites are waiting for before striking. Also, be sure to up your misting regime: “Heating systems tend to make the air very dry, so misting can help increase relative humidity,”she adds.

How about fertilizer—since the tree won’t be outside, what should people do?

The best time to fertilize your citrus tree is between April and September, and it should be done once a month. “This is when the tree will be most productive and could use the nutrient boost,” explains Bullene. She uses an organic high nitrogen fertilizer that’s made specifically for citrus.

Do you have any tricks that extend the life of a citrus tree in an apartment?

“I keep mine near my humidifier, since I don’t always remember to mist, and this helps a lot in the winter months,” reveals Bullene. If your apartment has a balcony or is in an area where you might be able to put it on a stoop without fear of it being stolen, she also recommends popping it outside occasionally during the spring and summer.

]]>Elly LeavittStressed Out? Experts Swear By These Organizational Toolshttps://www.domino.com/content/stress-management-tips/
Thu, 23 May 2019 11:00:04 +0000https://www.domino.com/?p=138851An organized space quite simply makes life easier. No more searching endlessly for your keys or stepping over laundry strewn across the floor—organized and clutter-free is the good life. “Having an organized space is crucial for peace of mind,” says Clea Shearer, cofounder of The Home Edit.

But beyond the handiness, a clean space has actually been linked to mental and even overall health through various studies. In one particular study, participants with cluttered homes expressed higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Could less stress be as easy as a useful catchall or a shoe organizer? “The human body itself is well regulated and well organized, which makes sense why we want to [imitate] this cleanliness and symmetry in our home and environment,” says Jamie Hord, cofounder of Horderly. “Neatness and order support our health.” Or maybe the stress of clutter is also in the shame. “I think that clutter causes anxiety because it’s a form of losing control,” says Lisa Tselebidis, a KonMari certified consultant. “And if something is out of control and you don’t know how to deal with it, people tend to avoid it, which usually just makes the problem (and the anxiety) even worse.”

We asked a handful of our favorite organizers what objects they swear by to keep their cortisol levels in check. Here are the six tips and items we’re adding to our carts ASAP, all in the name of stressing less.

Utilize a Never-Lose-Your-Keys-Again Catchall

Maybe you’re not particularly triggered by clutter in your home, but you might be the type of person who always seems to misplace her keys or wallet, leaving you to scramble finding them while rushing out the door. “Designate a tray or drop spot for items right by the door so you grab them as you head out,” says Joanna Teplin, cofounder of The Home Edit. “The more intuitive the system is, the quicker it will become a habit.” That means you won’t have to waste precious time digging around for anything, and instead you’ll have more time to do the things you enjoy—“a stress reliever in itself,” Shearer adds.

A chic and timeless catchall will not only give you a place for your necessary musts, but it will also bring you joy with its extraordinary beauty.

Label Your Way Out of Disorganization

Want to start sorting things but don’t know where to start? Hord recommends finding a label that you’ll actually like using. “To avoid anxiety from a messy, disorganized house, ensure that everything has a specific home,” she says. “Why items might not be going back to where they belong is most likely because there is confusion on where they should be put, due to no proper home being created.”

Create a dedicated space for your object family and label it so items will never get lost back en route home. These easy-to-use clips are simple to clamp on and work with a dry-erase marker, so you can constantly change the labeling if needed.

Keep Categories in One Spot

“If someone’s home is causing anxiety, excess clutter and things not having a designated place is often the main source of distress,” says Tselebidis. “Thus, decluttering and organizing one’s whole home is the best way to get to the root of the problem.”

Tselebidis is a huge proponent of organizing things via categories, i.e., shoes in one spot via a sleek shoe rack, or books on one shelf. “Storing things by category puts one’s mind at ease; if storage is scattered, the mind is likely scattered as well,” she says. Storing like items together will make finding them quickly a breeze, thus arguably positively affecting your overall well-being.

A Japanese minimalist-inspired shoe rack will help prevent the dreaded shoe pileup near the front door. Instead, they’ll now have a home all to themselves to rest and air out before the next time you want to show them off. And finally, it’s a shoe rack that isn’t hideous (or wildly expensive).

Invest in Storage-Friendly Furniture

Minimalist, clean design will never go out of style, but it’s not exactly storage friendly. Side tables, desks, and open shelving don’t leave you a lot of room to organize items. “The right furniture is key; having too much open-storage furniture can add to the feeling of being constantly cluttered,” says Beatrice Copeland of Bea Organized. “If you have open shelving in your living room, consider a coffee table or side table that has some closed storage. Sometimes it’s nice to put things away and not see them.”

A side table that not only provides but sleekly celebrates storage will help hide away unsightly objects, like phone chargers and computer cords. This one from the Kartell x La DoubleJ collection is still lust-worthy, with a pattern that playfully announces itself in any room.

When In Doubt, Start With Baskets

Domino’s editor in chief, Jessica Romm Perez, has a home that’s well-known around Domino HQ for its tidiness, but it’s not only well organized, it’s a celebration of order—every object has a space. And most of those designated spots include a chic basket. “They truly help me be organized; they corral things that could be ugly into a basket I don’t mind looking at,” she says.

Not only does a basket conveniently hide away unsightly objects, but it also makes it a breeze come cleanup time. Each one in her children’s playroom is dedicated to a theme—one for cars, another for Magna-Tiles, etc. A handsome basket is also an easy fix for high-traffic areas, like an entryway. Miscellaneous objects, such as shoes and umbrellas, can easily build up, leading to stress-inducing disorganization, but instead, everything goes into a basket. Et voilà.

These unique, pastel-shaded plastic baskets will hold up for years, even with the kiddos’ wear and tear, all while looking endlessly chic. As an added bonus, they can also be used as planters.

Organize Your Mind, Too

There are a lot of clever home-organization tools here, but don’t overlook the impact of an organized mind, too, when aiming to stress less. “An item that has a large impact on my anxiety is a beautiful journal and pen set,” says Poppy Jamie, founder of Happy Not Perfect.

“Having a diary readily available to document your stream of consciousness makes you aware of things you never knew were on your mind and often gets to the root of an unidentified problem,” she says. You might be tempted to turn to your phone and Instagram when you have a free moment, but old-school paper and pen may do the mind better. “I’m constantly traveling and often on the go, but having a tool to handwrite thoughts and feelings is a welcome escape from our trusty smartphones,” says Jamie. She also created the Happy Not Perfect app, which she says helps her organize her thoughts and start the day levelheaded and destressed.

Journaling might not be your favorite practice. Kick-start the habit with a gorgeous, hand-painted journal and favorite shades of pens that are so lovely you’ll actually be encouraged to put pen to paper.

When Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced in April that she would be overseeing a community garden plot until September, plant experts and home gardeners alike were abuzz with plenty of sage advice (get it—sage?). Now, just over a month later, the fruits (well, actually vegetables) of her labor have sprouted. The congresswoman took to her Instagram Stories to share her gardening efforts—and it’s going well!

Ocasio-Cortez opened up on the inspiration behind her journey as an urban farmer, saying that she hoped gardening would benefit her mental health. “I was not taking enough time for myself for mindfulness, and I feel like plants are a great accountability partner because they literally die if you don’t take time to tend to yourself and them,” she said. It seems that, in spite of her hectic schedule, the Bronx native has successfully tended to her garden patch, which is filled with dahlias, sage, eucalyptus, cilantro, basil, rosemary, spinach, Swiss chard, lavender, and collard greens.

However, the process hasn’t been without its challenges—that’s why we’re here with some advice.

Garden planting success!

This is my first time trying a garden like this, so let’s see how it goes. Shoshin approach.

While harvesting a bountiful crop of collard greens, spinach, and Swiss chard, Ocasio-Cortez noticed that the spinach looked a little wonky, which is totally normal. See, the plant started bolting, which all herbs and greens do when they begin to flower. There’s an easy fix for this, though: When you see a small cluster of tiny buds appearing, just pinch them off. Then your plant’s leaves will continue growing normally. You can also buy slow-bolt varieties of plants; we’d particularly recommend this for cilantro, which bolts pretty frequently and more often in hot weather.

Ocasio-Cortez’s dahlias also appear to be doing well—in fact, they may end up outgrowing their container garden. These flowers can grow up to five feet tall, so they might do well repotted in some spacious, 12-inch pots instead.

Lastly, if the congresswoman has her sights set on adding a few new things to her garden, we’d suggest bok choy (it grows quickly!), mixed lettuce (it’s versatile!), and heat-resistant kale (it can last all summer and winter!). As long as plants are given ample space to grow—at least six inches around them—they should flourish in the New York City summer.

When Ocasio-Cortez’s time with the community garden is over in September, she can also keep her green thumb going: Her rosemary and lavender can easily be brought inside in winter. After all, once you’ve caught the gardening bug, it’s hard to stop.